The beloved Hera Pheri franchise is officially returning with its much-anticipated third installment, Hera Pheri 3. Fans of Bollywood comedy are buzzing with excitement as director Priyadarshan—the creative mind behind the original Hera Pheri—confirms his involvement once again. Even more thrilling is the returning trio: Akshay Kumar, Paresh Rawal, and Suniel Shetty, who will reprise their iconic roles as Raju, Baburao, and Shyam.
Since its debut in 2000, Hera Pheri quickly established itself as one of the most cherished comedy films in Indian cinema. The perfect blend of humor, impeccable comic timing, and relatable storylines made it shine. The on-screen chemistry among the three lead actors helped transform their characters—Raju, Baburao, and Shyam—into household names, ensuring their place in the hearts of audiences. With the success of Hera Pheri leading to the 2006 sequel, Phir Hera Pheri, fans were left wanting more as both films achieved cult status, with memorable lines like, “Utha le re baba!” and “Ye Babu Rao ka style hai!”
Over the years, countless rumors have circulated about Hera Pheri 3, spanning multiple delays and speculations surrounding its cast and director. Initial plans had the late Neeraj Vora directing; tragically, after his passing in 2017, the film’s future looked uncertain. Yet, on his birthday, Priyadarshan announced his return to direct, much to the delight of fans who had long awaited definitive news on the project.
While plot details remain under wraps, Hera Pheri 3 is set to bring back the classic humor and situational comedy fans have come to know and love. Kumar will return as the street-smart yet unlucky Raju, Shetty as the responsible and emotional Shyam, and Rawal as the lovable Baburao Ganpatrao Apte—ensuring audiences will enjoy seeing their favorites back on-screen. After the second film's cliffhanger ending—with Raju plunging headfirst unknowingly back to mishaps—it’s safe to assume fans will witness more of the trio's misadventures, full of the signature laugh-out-loud sequences, witty dialogues, and unexpected twists audiences adore about the franchise.
The news of Hera Pheri 3 generated immense excitement online almost immediately. Social media exploded with fervor, as fans began sharing memes, nostalgic clips, and speculating potential storylines. Many of them expressed gratitude for Priyadarshan’s return, emphasizing how it would retain the original film's charm. Given cinema’s gradual shift toward new storytelling styles, this revival of comedy may provide Bollywood with the much-needed dose of nostalgia and laughter.
Looking ahead, pre-production for Hera Pheri 3 is expected to kick off soon, with reports indicating film slated for release could occur as early as 2026. Despite the lack of official dates, there’s already considerable anticipation for what this third installment will deliver. The insistence on theatrical release reflects the confidence producers have based on the franchise's enormous fan base and box office potential.
Fans of the franchise can’t ignore the fact: this is no ordinary sequel. Instead, it’s poised as a heartfelt tribute to an era of comedy beloved by many. Whether you grew up quoting lines from the earlier films or discovered them through internet memes, Hera Pheri 3 is undoubtedly set to be one of the most-watched films when it releases. On this nostalgic note, anticipation is high as audiences prepare to witness the much-awaited return of bullheaded yet endearing characters from the Hera Pheri universe.
Until then, cinema-goers are encouraged to relive the magic of Phir Hera Pheri, which is currently available for streaming free on JioCinema, Amazon MX Player, and even on Shemaroo Comedy’s YouTube channel. Waiting for the much-anticipated sequel? The rejuvenation of this beloved franchise signals the enduring power of well-crafted comedy across generations.